headyversion

find the best versions of grateful dead songs

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merryjerry

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Submissions

9
The Wheel
Oct. 2, 1977
Paramount Theatre

It's so apt that The Wheel would roll into Truckin' that the outro is short but the rest is very nice.
9
Eyes Of The World
June 27, 1984
Merriweather Post Pavilion

Jerry really mines the changes on this one and pulls out plenty of little gold nuggets (like Coltrane). Good interplay, too. An inspired version.
11
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
May 12, 1981
Veterans' Memorial Coliseum

A cheesy video of this kickass version would have Garcia playing atop a steam locomotive as it barrels down the track.
10
China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
Oct. 18, 1972
Fox Theater

Incomplete, but what remains is top-notch and essential.
10
Me and Bobby McGee
March 26, 1973
Baltimore Civic Center

I just gotta nominate this one, that's all.
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Comments

China Cat Sunflower -> I Know You Rider
Feb. 22, 1974
Winterland Arena

While I feel that 'CCS'>'IKYR' could be a scorcher with any vintage of the band, it just might be that 1974 represents the apotheosis of this pairing, as nearly every version is a unique little sonic galaxy, with its own twists and turns and unique ornamentation. Here we have the first version from this year and recording-wise it's very good, with even the crowd well-captured (the SBDs from this Feb. '74 run are airier and, I think, richer than SBD recordings from later in the year, certain technical glitches notwithstanding). Note the interesting back-and-forth leading into the 'Feelin' Groovy' jam.
Dark Star
June 24, 1973
Memorial Coliseum

Welcome aboard, DeadheadDan. You're right, this one deserves more fanfare. The pre-verse portion seems to epitomize the prevailing notion of '73 Dead being jazzy and mellow (although mellow is a relative term). After a nice, gentle but engaging intro, Phil begins to play a Stanley Clarke-like Latin fusion sounding line that the rest of the boys attack like an open buffet. Mandatory listening for fans of the era, for sure.
Eyes Of The World
March 28, 1973
Civic Center

Indeed, the outro portion is where this version really shines.
Jack Straw
April 16, 1978
Huntington Civic Center

In fact, this is my favorite of the era.
Eyes Of The World
April 16, 1978
Huntington Civic Center

Doesn't feature the most eloquent solos (although in his solo after the second verse there is something--maybe just a single well placed note-- that cuts deep) but it's an undeniable mood enhancer. This is a good version for listening to in the car with a cup of your favorite coffee on a bright, Saturday morning.
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